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The R1 flash kit is amazing. A big gadget bag full of just that, gadgets, comes with this system. two flashes, a plethora of mounting rings for various lenese, filter gels, mirror gadgets for extreme closeup work, a multi-position bracket, little feet to stand the flashes for studio macro setups, etc etc etc. The only parts I routinely use are the mounting ring and the two flashes, and I sort of wish they sold just those as a reduced kit for, say $100 less. On the other hand, this way I am prepared for almost any imaginable situation...

The basic system is excellent. Particularly if you use a 105/2.8 D macro. On that lens, the system mounts via an extra set of threads I had not realized was there, and mounts to the lens barrel rather than the part of the lens that extends while focusing, so the weight of the ring and flashes is not born by the focusing mount. You can leave one part of the mounting ring attached to the lens, and clip the lrger ring with attached flashes off and on in seconds. Way more convenient than any of the various bracket arrangements I have used in the past.

I use an SB-800 on my D2x as the master, and the two flashes mounted on the lens as remotes. The flashes have built-in LCD illuminators, apparently mostly meant to aid in aimimg the flash heads, but bright enough to illuminate the subject for composing and focusing at night. Using the SB800 as master, you can set its relative output level and the relative output levels of the R1 flashes separately. The range of effects available is almost unlimited, and because the ring and flashes can be popped off for carrying, it is extremely convenient for field use.

The only problem I have encountered is in taking photos of small mammals, and to some extent, reptiles. So much flashing goes on before the esposure, as the master and slave flashes communicate back and forth, that mammals always blink before the picture is taken, and reptiles sometimes do. Using the flash in manual instead of TTL mode seems to cut down on this, and isn't too hard since you can use histograms to check exposure.

All in all, a spectacularly good outfit, thoroughly recommended unless you need to take mammal photos.

Would you recommend the product? Yes |
Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 0

Pros:

perfect exposure, remarkable flexibility

Cons:

$$$

The R1 system is just that, a full lighting system. It's really like a small studio lighting system in a box. I've used many macro flash set ups over the years and nothing comes close to this well thought out package.

The freedom of the wireless system is the key to it's ease and speed of setup. The small flashes can be placed on small stands anywhere that suits. It's also possible to add Nikon SB-600 or SB-800 flashes to the mix.

The R1 system can be triggered by the built in flash of the D-70 odr D-80 in commander mode. The only drawback is that the D-70 will not allow for varied flash output. This can be controlled by the SU controller in the R1C1 setup. D2 owners must use the R1C1 as it does not have its own built in flash. A great bonus of the D-80 is that it allows for internal control of flash power.

This system is not cheap. However, it is remarkably versatile. After using it for several months, I would highly recommend the system to any Nikon user.